Everyone is always looking for things to do in the summer.
Going on road trips seems to be a common thing that people do in the state of Michigan. Summer also seems to be a time when everyone goes up north. Everyone knows about Mackinaw City and they think they have seen it all by just staying on the main stretch of the city which has all the shops and restaurants, but the truth is there is more to the city than just those two roads everyone seems to stay on.
If you plan on going to Mackinaw City this summer, I challenge you to get off the main stretch and check out some of these other places.
1. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
There is an admission price to this site which is $8 for adults, but it is more than just a lighthouse. It also has a shipwreck museum on the property. You are also allowed to go up the tower of the lighthouse if you have on shoes that have a front and a back on them. Just don’t wear flip flops or sandals if you want to go up.
2. Fort Michilimackinac
Did you know that a fort was used before Fort Mackinac was used? Well now you do and this site was that fort. If you are into history come check out this site. There is an admission price here as well which is $12 for adults.
3. McGulpin Point Lighthouse
No admission fee at this lighthouse and it is just outside of town. You can go into the lighthouse and go up the tower too. Here they do not have a rule about no flip flops to climb the tower.
4. The International Dark Sky Park
If you are going to spend a night in the City, go spend a few hours that night at this free site. You might be amazed at what you can see in the night sky from this spot. Just don’t take your cell phone because you aren't allowed to use it or any other form of white light.
5. The Headlands
If you like to hike, visit the headlands. You must walk through them to get to the international dark sky park, but because it is night time for those visits, you don’t get a chance to see what is around you. Going during the day gives you the chance to really walk through this portion.
6. Mill Creek Discovery Park
Another pretty hiking spot. If you are feeling adventurous, you also have the option to go on the Adventure tour, which has a rock wall, a canopy bridge, and a zip line. This site also has an admission fee with an extra fee for the adventure tour fee. Please wear closed-toed shoes for the adventure tour.
7. Heritage Village
This has historical buildings and a few trails. It also has a few old farming tools that you can look at. As far as I am aware, it is free, but it is only open Memorial Day through Labor Day and is only open on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.
